Topper Pragati students felicitated at the ‘Educate Girls’ graduation ceremony in Pali on Monday (March 23, 2026). | Photo credit: Special arrangement
Educate Girls – mobilizing communities for girls’ education in rural and educationally marginalized areas – felicitated female students who successfully cleared Class 10 board exams through its second chance education initiative, Pragati, at a graduation ceremony in Rajasthan’s Pali on Monday (March 23, 2026).
Educate Girls is the first Indian organization to receive the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award in recognition of its work to address the gender gap in education by enabling thousands of girls to return to school, primarily through community-based efforts.
The Pali ceremony brought together community leaders, government representatives, partners, volunteers and students to celebrate nearly two decades of support for girls’ education. Graduates were awarded certificates and an interactive session provided a platform for students and mentors to share their stories of community involvement.
On this occasion, as many as 13 teenage girls and young women were recognized as the toppers for securing more than 70% marks in Rajasthan State Open School Class 10 examinations. These students benefited from the Educate Girls’ Pragati programme, which supports women between the ages of 15 and 29 who are older, academically disadvantaged or at risk of dropping out of formal education.
More than 10,210 students have returned to their education through the program after longer gaps and successfully completed the 10th grade. In addition to focusing on academic education, Pragati has empowered young women to develop life skills and decision-making skills, enabling them to shape their future.
District Director of Literacy and Further Education Kailash Chandra Rathore praised Educate Girls for their sustained impact over the past 18 years and pointed out that Pragati students have overcome obstacles to achieve their aspirations. “Once out of school, the girls progressed with confidence and independence,” Mr Rathore said.
As part of the ceremony, several mentors talked about their experience mobilizing communities through direct contact with people, encouraging families to enroll and supporting girls in further education. For several of the girls, it was their first public event to recognize them as role models in their communities.
The top honorees at the ceremony shared their stories of balancing household responsibilities, overcoming social barriers and restarting their education to pursue their dreams. Their experience highlighted the transformative power of second chance opportunities.
Published – 25 March 2026 02:38 IST
